The Development Communication Research Association of Nigeria (DECRAN) has disclosed its intention to use the forthcoming maiden multidisciplinary conference/workshop at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) to seek solutions to the numerous challenges facing Nigeria as a nation.
Tribune Online gathered that the conference/workshop, billed to hold at the Princess Alexandria Auditorium, UNN, from November 20 to 22, 2024, has the Acting Vice Chancellor, Professor Romanus Ezeokonkwo, as the Chief Host and the Dean, Faculty of Arts, Professor Paul Obi-Ani as the Host.
The Head of the Mass Communication Department, UNN, Professor Joseph Wogu, is the Co-Host, while the former Dean of the Faculty of Arts, UNN, Professor Nnanyelugo Okoro is the keynote speaker.
The lead paper presenters are Professor Sunny Udeze of the Department of Mass Communication, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, and Professor Chinwe Uzochukwu of the Department of Mass Communication, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
Speaking to Journalists in Awka on Monday, on the forthcoming event, the Convener and President of DECRAN, Dr Blessing N. Chinweobo-Onuoha, said the conference was open to all academics and professionals, irrespective of their discipline.
According to Chinweobo-Onuoha, the event themed “Empowering Voices and Transforming Communities: Harnessing Development Communication for Sustainable Change in Nigeria,” would brainstorm on how to use media and communication to empower communities, promote gender equality and inclusivity, tackle health and environmental challenges and improve disaster preparedness, among others.
She explained that DECRAN, which is flagging off its annual international conference at UNN, stands as the pioneering force in the realm of communication research within Nigeria.
She said, “Established with a profound commitment to advancing the understanding and practice of development communication, DECRAN serves as a hub for scholars, practitioners and enthusiasts alike.
“With a focus on exploring the intersection of communication, media, and societal development, the association spearheads initiatives to foster dialogue, promote research, and facilitate knowledge exchange.”
Chinweobo-Onuoha added that DECRAN, through its diverse range of activities, publications and collaborative endeavours, plays a pivotal role in shaping the discourse, surrounding development communication in Nigeria, contributing significantly, to both academic scholarship and practical interventions, aimed at fostering sustainable development.
Top among the 23 carefully chosen sub-themes of the conference include “Amplifying Marginalized Voices: Inclusivity in Development Communication,” “Leveraging Digital Platforms for Community Engagement and Empowerment,” “Media Literacy and Critical Thinking: Building Resilient Communities,” “Cultivating Partnerships: Collaboration between Media, Government, and Civil Society,” and “Environmental Communication: Advocating for Sustainable Practices.”
Others are “Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment in Communities Initiative,” “Harnessing Indigenous Knowledge for Development Communication Strategies,” “Addressing Health Disparities: Communicating for Improved Public Health Outcomes,” “Disaster Preparedness and Crisis Communication,” and “Youth Engagement and Participation in Development Communication Efforts.”